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Completing Employment Applications:
Avoid The Screen Out!
While most job seekers view employment applications as a way to get hired, they are used by employers
primarily as a tool to "screen out" applicants who do not meet their requirements.
The employment application helps the personnel department narrow down the pool of people they will
interview to a manageable number of well qualified people.
Use employer applications to your advantage. This is your chance to demonstrate to the employer
that you are the sharp, qualified person they are seeking.
How to Avoid The Screen Out!
Here are some tips to help you avoid being
"screened out":
Get Organized
√ You will need a file to keep all your information in when submitting job apps.
√ In this file, you should have copies of your resume, a completed sample application
with all of your information on it, a black pen (preferably erasable), and white out for any corrections.
Follow Directions & Be Thorough
√ Follow the directions on the application. This is the first indication to an employer
that you will take the time to read and follow directions.
√ You want to get the interview, so fill in every space carefully using your best handwriting.
Don't write "see resume" on the employment history part of the application. Take the time to be thorough
with your answers.
√ Don't cross out any mistakes! Use black pen, preferably erasable pen. Have White Out available
in case you make a mistake.
Be Honest
√ Be honest about the information you put on the employment application.
√ Be positive. Avoid saying anything negative about yourself or a past employer.
√ Have the job listing in front of you when filling out employment applications. Underline what
the employer is asking for in the want ad or online job listing. Make sure that you include those words
on your application.
Be Professional
√ Fill in your name, address, and contact information. Don't abbreviate anything. Make sure
the message on your telephone service is professional. If you use a message number, make sure that
person's message is professional and that they will get the message to you within 24 hours.
√ Your e-mail address should be professional as well - perhaps your LastNameFirstInitial@hotmail.com.
You should check your e-mail on a daily basis.
√ If you are asked what date you are available to work, you will want to put "with a two week
notice", unless you are unemployed. This shows the employer you are responsible with respect to your
current employer.
√ If the employer asks for a social security number, they should not need this on a paper
application until the interview. You can put, "willing to supply at interview".
√ If the application asks for your desired salary write, "negotiable". There is no need to
include a desired salary on your resume; the employer may be willing to pay you more than what you
would ask for. If you state on your resume that you will work for less, then they will surely
offer you less!
Be Specific
√ Write in the title of the position you are applying for. Don't put "any position" -
the employer wants to know specifically what you are asking to be considered for. They will route your
application accordingly.
Use Professional References
√ All your references should be
Professional References.
√ Always obtain permission from each person before using them as a reference and give them a
copy of your resume to keep your skills and accomplishments fresh in their memory.
Handling Felony Convictions
√ The employer may ask if you have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor on your employment
application.
√ They are asking if you have been convicted, not if you have been arrested. An arrest without
a conviction does not have to be disclosed.
√ You should answer the question honestly, just like the rest of your application.
√ This is not a screen out question. There are many companies that utilize tax credits for
hiring ex-felons. The company may be checking to make sure they take advantage of these programs when
they hire you.
√ If you have been convicted, the application may ask you to explain. Your answer should
be honest, take ownership, and show a positive resolution. For instance, for a DWI conviction,
you could say, "Driving While Intoxicated ten years ago, successfully completed counseling, no further
problems."
Your Education is Important
√ List your education with the last degree received first. If you have completed some college
classes, but did not yet receive a degree, then list the total number of credits on your application;
this shows your continued effort to improve yourself.
√ If you received a GED, this should be listed on your employment applications as "Diploma".
It is not necessary to let the employer know how you received the diploma, just that you did receive one.
Stay Positive
√ Take every opportunity on the application to let the employer know why you meet the
requirements of the job.
√ Underline what the employer is asking for in the want ad or online job listing. Make sure
that you include those words in your employment history descriptions.
√ If there is a section for "other" or "additional" information, make sure you fill it in.
The employer needs to know what is unique and special about you. This is your chance to tell your story.
√ Avoid writing anything negative about a past employer or about yourself. Even if your
last employment ended less than favorably, write what you enjoyed about doing the job.
√ Fill in any employment gaps with volunteer work or organizations you were involved with.
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"Whoever I am,
or whatever I am doing,
some kind of excellence
is within my reach."
-John W. Gardner
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